Aspirin Butalbital And Caffeine Description

Generic Name: ASPIRIN, BUTALBITAL, and CAFFEINE

Pronunciation: (as' pir in) (byoo' tal' bi tal) (kaf' een)

Trade Name(s): Micropyris, Apiden, Butalbital, Fiorinal

Why it is prescribed: This combination of drugs is used to relieve tension headaches.

When it is to be taken: This medication is usually taken every four hours if needed. Follow the instructions on your prescription label carefully.

How it should be taken: This medication comes in the form of tablets and capsules. Your prescription label tells you how much to take at each dose. Take only the amount prescribed by your doctor. Do not take more than six tablets or capsules in one day. If you think that you need more to relieve your symptoms, contact your doctor.

Special Instruction:
1. This drug makes some people drowsy or dizzy. Do not drive a car or operated dangerous machinery until you know how it affects you.
2. Alcoholic beverages can add to the drowsiness and stomach irritation caused by this drug. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice about the safe use of alcohol.
3. This medication may be habit-forming. Do not take it more often or for a longer period than your doctor tells you to, and do not take more than the amount prescribed at each dose.
4. Do not increase your dose without consulting your doctor.

Side Effects:
1. Nausea, vomiting and stomach pain are common. Take this medication after meals or with a full glass of water or milk. If these effects continue, contact your doctor.
2. Drowsiness, dizziness, lightheadedness and confusion are infrequent. Contact your doctor if these effects are severe.
3. Ringing in the ears, bloody or black stools and difficulty breathing are seen rarely. Stop taking this medication and contact your doctor immediately.

Other Precautions:
1. Tell your doctor what other medications you are taking, particularly anticoagulants, acetazolamide, corticosteroids, methotrexate, and medication for arthritis, gout, or diabetes.
2. Do not take sleeping pills, tranquilizers, antidepressants, sedatives, or any other medications unless your doctor tells you that you may.
3. Tell your doctor if you have bleeding problems or a history of ulcers.
4. If you are pregnant or breast-feeding, inform your doctor before taking this medication.
5. Do not take this medication if you ever had a bad reaction to butalbital, aspirin, caffeine, or other pain relievers such as ibuprofen.
6. Do not allow anyone else to take this medication.

Storage Conditions:
1. Keep this medication in a tightly closed container it came in.
2. Keep it out of the reach of children.
3. Store it in a cool, dry place.
4. Throw away any medication that smells strongly of vinegar.